However, at least $144 million will be spent to train the individuals who will fill the estimated 50,000 health IT jobs expected to become available as a result of the HITECH Act mandates.

Computerworld reports that starting this fall, more than 80 colleges and universities around the country will receive funds to implement and administer health IT training programs designed for those who already have health care or IT backgrounds. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service developed the curriculum around 12 specific roles. Some certifications can be completed in six months' time, but programs for privacy and security specialists or higher level administrative positions will range from one to three years.

Each school will receive at least $1 million on average.

Also in an effort to advance health care IT, the Federal Communications Commission approved a notice of proposed rulemaking that would adjust an existing telecommunications subsidy program to include affordable broadband for rural hospitals. Computerworld's Grant Gross explained:

The plan would give patients in rural areas access to state-of-the-art diagnostic tools often available only in the largest medical centers. Many rural clinics and hospitals lack affordable access to basic broadband that can handle simple telemedicine functionality, the FCC said.

More than 2,000 facilities will benefit from the program, which is to be funded by the Universal Service Fund.